UK Space Agency funds new launch technology

The UK is on track to becoming the first country in Europe to offer commercial launch services to small satellite manufacturers, from a range of spaceports offering both horizontal and vertical rocket launch capabilities.

Funding from the agency’s new Launch UK Technology Investment Programme will support teams from industry and universities to develop technology, products and services that will enhance the UK spaceflight supply chain, strengthen international competitiveness and catalyse further investment.

One project will recycle materials, including natural cork, to create thermal projection solutions for launcher propulsion systems and launch vehicles with a lower environmental impact. Another will develop launcher components out of lighter and more cost-effective metal composites, reducing the risk of creating space debris. Two further projects will follow next year.

Launch services are worth a potential £3.8bn to the UK economy over the next decade according to the UK Space Agency, which is already delivering a programme of spaceflight projects including Virgin Orbit’s first launch from Spaceport Cornwall. It will carry nine satellites into orbit early next year.